337.4 million units! US tire shipments projected to reach a new high in 2025.

■ At the end of November, natural rubber futures prices showed divergent trends, with mixed gains and losses across major exchange contracts. Severe flooding in the main production areas of Southeast Asia provided price support, but concerns over weak market demand limited the gains, resulting in an overall narrow range of fluctuations.

■ The German Rubber Manufacturers Association (WDK) called for the establishment of a special parliamentary group for industrial SMEs. The association stated that the difficulties faced by medium-sized rubber companies are often misunderstood by policymakers, and many "hidden champions" in various niche sectors are overlooked in legislation. This group could promote communication between government and business, improve legislation, and strengthen policy attention to industrial SMEs, thus contributing to both industrial development and the overall national economy.

■ The European Automobile Manufacturers Association called on the EU to adjust its automotive policies, stating that without significant policy changes, the 2030-2035 emission reduction targets for vehicles will not be met. The association pointed out that the European car market has not recovered to pre-pandemic levels, infrastructure development is lagging, and incentive policies are inconsistent. It also proposed suggestions such as establishing differentiated policies, stimulating demand, and simplifying regulations, urging policies to align with industry realities to avoid weakening the competitiveness of the European automotive industry.

■ Flooding in southern Thailand affected 656,000 hectares of rubber plantations, resulting in a production decrease of 43,000 tons between November 18th and 27th. Tapping will remain suspended until weather conditions improve, putting short-term pressure on supply in the main production areas.

■ The U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association (USTMA) predicts that total U.S. tire shipments will reach 337.4 million units in 2025, a new historical high. The original equipment market is expected to decline by 2.8 million units, while the replacement market is projected to grow by 3 million units.

■ ANRPC released its monthly statistical report on natural rubber for October 2025. The report shows that natural rubber prices fell in October due to increased production and exports driven by previously high prices, coupled with weak demand. The report forecasts that global natural rubber production and demand will increase by 1.3% and 0.8% respectively in 2025. 

■ According to a report by Cox Automotive, US new car sales slowed in November due to weak demand for electric vehicles and the expiration of subsidies.  Annual sales are projected at 15.7 million units (a nearly 8% year-on-year decrease). High prices, tariffs, and fewer selling days contributed to the market slowdown, and this weak trend is expected to continue until early 2026.

■ The European Chemical Industry Council (Cefic) reported that the EU chemical industry in 2025 is affected by weak demand, high energy costs, and increased competition. In the first nine months, chemical production in the 27 EU countries decreased by 2.5% year-on-year, with significant declines in the Netherlands, France, and Germany, while only Belgium saw a slight increase. Exports in the first eight months decreased by 2.3% year-on-year to €148.6 billion, while imports increased by 2.6% to €123.7 billion. Industry production remains below pre-pandemic levels, investment is hampered, and the sector faces the risk of deindustrialization.